Checking in on Cayo Largo, Cuba's calm island destination

Cayo Largo del Sur doesn’t get the credit it deserves, say travel industry insiders who specialize in Cuba. The sun-kissed island, located off the south coast of the northwestern part of the island, and roughly equidistant between Havana and Varadero, is one of Cuba’s smallest resort islands, but it’s big on tranquility.

Recently, a delegation from the destination called in Canada to take part in a travel trade luncheon for agents organized by the Cuba Tourist Board and Hola Sun, which offers packages there. Here is a brief sampling of information and observations from the Mississauga, Ont., event:

·The cay is 25 km long and three km wide surrounded by turquoise waters and boasting 24 km of the white, sandy beaches that rank amongst the best in not only Cuba but the world. The beach is even better than Cayo Santa Maria.

·“Cayo Largo is one of the most relaxing areas of Cuba of I’ve ever been to,” says Brenda Bradley of Melia Hotels’ Cuba division in Canada, who adds, “If you plan to go there and forget it all, you can even go there and forget your bathing suit.”

·As might be expected for an resort island, water sports are king, with snorkelling, diving, fishing, catamarans and all manner of activities above and below the waves available.

·All hotels on the island are beachfront. There aren’t as many new ones as in Cayo Coco, but they are well maintained. A tram connects many of the properties.

·The island has a reputation for being a little too peaceful, but for the activity minded there is plenty to do, from the aforementioned water sports to crocodile and turtle farms or an excursion to Iguana Island. Sunsets are spectacular.

·Havana and Varadero are easily reached by short flight and affordable day trip excursions are plentiful.

·Cayo Largo is currently more popular out of Montreal than it is out of Toronto.

New flight

Meanwhile, as if on cue, Sunwing recently announced the addition of a new flight service to Cayo Largo from Toronto this winter. Operating Fridays from Dec. 15 to April 13, the destination is Sunwing’s eighth in Cuba.

Sunwing will also offer a wide range of accommodation packages suitable for families, luxury and adult vacations that include: